The estimation of N-nitrosamines in tropical regions by reversed-phase paper and thin-layer chromatography

A simple and convenient procedure based on reversed-phase paper and thin-layer chromatography is reported for the detection and estimation of N-nitrosamines in food products, particularly cured meat. The method can easily be applied in tropical regions when plenty of sunshine is available. It is particularly useful in food-testing laboratories where sophisticated analysical instruments such as the gas chromatograph, mass spectrometer, etc., are not available. By this procedure, it is possible to detect up to 10 mug and to estimated up to 75-mug (reversed phase) and 50-mug (thin layer) amounts of N-nitrosamines.